In 2019, trailer burglaries – also called pilferages – have become the preferred method of stealing cargo in the United States, according to cargo-theft-recording firm CargoNet. The SensiGuard Supply Chain Intelligence Center reports these types of theft have increased 198 percent since 2014.
Through pilferage, criminals break into trailers transporting high-value merchandise and swipe a small part of the load as a means both to reduce risk (because the goods can be sold quickly) and gather intelligence for future heists. Thieves tend to target less-than-truckload shipments
for pilferage because the trucks make more stops and typically aren’t watched as closely as full truckload shipments.
Whether you are an owner-operator or company driver, you need to be aware of this growing threat and ways to protect the goods you haul. Here are seven steps you can take:
1. BE IN THE KNOW: Keep up with the latest trends in cargo theft. Where do thieves usually strike? What items are they looking for? CargoNet and SensiGuard issue regular reports detailing cargo-theft trends.
2. AVOID BREAK DOWNS: Breakdowns create opportunities for theft. Examine the truck and trailer thoroughly before each trip and before you depart shippers’ facilities.
3. DON’T STOP: Thieves sometimes watch cargo being loaded and will follow vehicles carrying high-dollar goods. Fill your fuel tank and stay on the road for at least 250 miles.
4. WATCH YOUR BACK: Be mindful of vehicles with multiple occupants and out-of-state plates following you.
5. FOLLOW THE RULES: Security procedures at shippers’ and consignees’ facilities are designed to prevent cargo theft.
6. KEEP YOUR KEYS: Never leave keys in the cab or another place a thief might look for them.
7. PARK SAFELY: Choose lighted, steadily trafficked areas with security cameras. If youare hauling high-value or commonly stolen goods, park at carrier-owned facilities whenever possible.
8. INSPECT THE TRAILER/CONTAINER OFTEN: At each stop, confirm the load is intact. Continue to check the trailer/container at least every four hours.
9. ZIP YOUR LIPS: Avoid discussing your cargo in public or online. This could tip off cargo-theft rings.
10. REPORT THEFT ASAP: The sooner an incident is reported, the more likely recovery is.
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